PERSPECTIVES

Vol 27 Issue 3 ❖ Fall 2015

The future GMBC by Kevin Bessett or me, and for too many years, time has existed in a bucket THANKS & HELLO by Kevin Bessett Fwith an unhurried and constant drip, the effects of which have gone mostly unnoticed because of my busy and fast-paced life. fter 14 years of sending Moreover, this pace is getting faster and faster, which brings me a Aout solicitations for vision of a runaway train. Lately, as I have peered more often info this newsletter submissions, bucket of time, it has become clear to me that there has been a grand organizing the puzzle of illusion happening before my eyes, and that the bucket that seemed submissions into newsletter somewhat full is actually not. formats, sending the softcopies Nearly two and one-half decades ago I began my “career” with and mailing lists to the printer, GMBC. It began with the time trial series, then a few years later I and distributing newsletters added the task of handling membership. A year after that I found to some area businesses, Scott myself as VP, and then added Decker has turned over the web-master to my resume. In editor’s red pen to Jane Dunbar. 2004 I became president. All I would like to thank Scott for of which (minus the VP status) his years of dedication to the are still on my plate, which is club. Many eyes have looked by choice. While all of this has at his work through the years, kept me very busy, the experience as the newsletter is a source of has been rewarding, both on a schedules, news, and interesting personal and professional level, articles. I will miss his desert-dry and has allowed me to grow as an humor in his email solicitations, individual. and the friendly discussions Others who help run GMBC we’ve had about some of my have been at it for years, too. submissions. Not sure if he’s We know that the health of made me a more better writer, but an organization is ultimately I constantly ask myself, “What dependent upon new energy and will Scott think?” ideas, but maintaining the status- The changing of the virtual red quo can be easier, especially when GMBC presidents, past and pen brings Jane Dunbar into the present. From left: Spencer that unhurried dripping bucket is club officer ranks. She is going Knapp, Kevin Bessett and not on the radar often, and keeps to fit in very nicely and has hit Ben Haydock. (Photo courtesy of quietly dripping away. Bobby Bailey). the ground running. My only Founded during the winter of concern with Jane is that my 1970/’71 (which is four years after writing style (or lack thereof) will my birth), GMBC is one of the oldest bike clubs in the U.S., and it be front and center. Please have continued on p.3 pity on me, Jane! FROM THE VP’s DESK ... by John Williams

ithout dwelling too roads and safe driving practices. Wmuch on this, we all Recently we formed an alliance know that this cycling year with Little Bellas, whereby we in our area was punctured by will offer scholarships to young triple tragedies. One of them, in girls to expose them to a program particular, struck close to home that develops cycling and life and to the heart. In early April, skills. Richard was very in tune Richard Tom and I agreed to with the Little Bellas program meet at the Upper Deck Pub for (I’m hoping that we also to find shared burgers (my buy) and beer some Little Fellas to support!). (Richard’s buy). In addition, we will be bringing Richard was at a crossroads, Richard’s Ride to the cycling having recently left Earl’s Cyclery community in 2016. More and Fitness to take on his new information, a photo gallery, and “We are position at VBT. And, as always, event updates can be viewed at Richard’s grace shined like www.richardtomfoundation.com. committed to a radiant beam of optimism And yes, we seek contributions to expanding Richard during our brief time together help support all of the above (tax at the Upper Deck Pub. Our deductible!). Tom’s legacy by conversation, of course, centered SEGUE TO OUR OTHERWISE on cycling but also on prior WONDERFUL RIDE SEASON: hosting events that occupations, new occupations, reflect his passion and future hopes and dreams. Wednesday Rides The Wednesday ride series and spirit of fun.” Fewer than two weeks began on March 11 when Ben following our time at the Upper Clements and I set out for an Deck Pub, Richard was taken “Early Edition” ride on a warm from all of us in a gut-wrenching evening along the Cochran Road. way. Frustration, anger, and The Wednesday series concluded sadness are the primary emotions on Tuesday, October 27, a that still resonate with me when few days prior to the one-hour reflecting upon all of this. If reversal of clocks. anything positive is to come of this, it will be illuminated by the Six riders took part in the Richard Tom Foundation. “Tour de Pint” which consisted of a short ride highlighted by We (the Board of Directors) KOM and QOM challenges up are committed to expanding his Irish Hill. Sandy Dupuis, our legacy by hosting events that resident mountain goat, won reflect the passion and the spirit QOM uncontested. Stephen of fun that were Richard. In Znamierowski won KOM by a addition, we will work with other bike length in a hotly contested groups such as Local Motion, sprint up the hill. GMBC, and driver education programs to advocate for safe Following the Tour part we assembled at the Upper Deck continued on p.3 2 From the VP’s Desk continued from p.2 Thecontinued from Future p.1 GMBC

Pub for the Pint part—where we astounds me that I have been There will be a concerted effort wrestled tables and chairs from involved in the club for close to inject new energy and ideas other guests, because GMBC to half of its existence. That is (i.e., people) into the “staff ” showed up in force with 15 of us a long time, and a question I ranks, and it has already begun. to celebrate the season. Your VP constantly ask myself is, “Am I In future weeks, there will be was treated to dinner, a couple of becoming stale?” In the last five meetings to discuss the future of beers and a card of thanks signed years my answers have been: the club. If you have a desire to by all. “No, I’m not stale;” “well, be involved in steering different And at this point, I want to maybe a little bit;” “gosh, I’m aspects of the club, please reach thank all of the Wednesday moving faster in that direction;” out to me. I think that this will riders for what was a safe season and finally, “I’d not be enjoyed be an exciting time for GMBC. (no collisions or injuries that I if I were a cracker.” If you have grown used to people am aware of) and a fun season. It is no secret that my energy like Phyl, Tom, John B., and Preceding each ride, there was a level ebbs and flows in the club, myself, do not worry, we are not pre-ride talk with small reminders and I am sure is the same for splitting town just yet! about safe riding practices and some others on the staff, too. ways to maximize road-share aspects of riding. We did have an incident VP Rides rides in the form of the Bike with a horse and rider, which The VP ride series was also for the Lakes Century, and a frightened not only some in highly successful. We managed to ride from Charlotte to Essex, our riding group but also the visit gaps, notches, and summits NY—returning on the ferry on a horseback rider, her dog and most with sustained climbs. We even gorgeous, sunny and calm day. I importantly, the horse. All was had a few “flat” rides in the was away a couple of weekends smoothed over through follow up mix. A core group of 6-7 strong in June (Whiteface Hill Climb communications with the rider riders appeared for each ride. VP Bicycle Race and Vermont and with stable managers. rides will be scheduled through Gran Fondo), but the VP group November, after which I’ll be somehow managed to get in a few Beyond that we filled every occupied at Smugglers Notch on good rides without me! week with Wednesday rides weekends. (sometimes on alternate nights It was back to work with if weather inclement). While Some VP Ride highlights: more climbs in July—including only a few hardy riders typically On April 18, we kicked off Moretown & Roxbury Gaps, appeared early in the season, the the VP ride series when Kevin Jeffersonville to Jay Peak and numbers swelled with warming Bessett, Linus Owens, and I rode return, and Double Ap Gap (both evenings up to about 40 riders about 50 miles finishing in the sides) ride. during summer. Groups of A, rain. I forget where we went! Climbing continued in a big B+, B-, and C were released at During May we challenged way in August with an epic intervals on big nights. Moving ourselves with Ap Gap, then Whiteface area ride followed by into fall, although we had an Baby Gap/Ap, then Brandon & the climb to the summit (average extended period of glorious Middlebury Gaps, and Smugglers 8% over 7 miles). Bolton Notch evenings with cooling days and Notch. was also visited. A day of flat fun was provided by the Vermont nights, the numbers of riders June was a rainy month, Senior Games which drew many predictably tapered off. Once but we managed to find flatter again, thanks to all for a great of ages 50 or more years young. Wednesday night series! continued on p.5 3 2015 Practice Criterium Series by Andre Sturm or 2015, we had planned But first I would like to thank style with finish sprint. (The C F6 events at the Colchester again the volunteers who made race remained the introductory Watertower Hill location. this possible, in particular beginner’s race of 10 minutes fast Unfortunately, the first two Dorothy Pumo as referee and pace group ride, and 10 minutes events had to be cancelled due to John Witmer, but also Kim race with finish sprint). Every inclement weather, and the third Simonds, Michael Hopwood, fifth lap was a sprint for points, fell victim to a paving project Steve Gaydos, Michel Gray and with the finish sprint having on Watertower Circle. Maybe it Sharon Sturm. double points. The winner of the was due to this late start that the New this year was the format race is the rider with the most numbers of participants for the of a points race for the B and A points. The goal was threefold: remaining races were down a groups instead of the road race to reward race activity, to create little compared to previous years. a high intensity interval workout, and to gain race awareness by keeping track of your own and your competitors’ points. Based on what we saw, this format certainly created a very high intensity workout! The B race typically focused on the sprint laps, but for the As, all stops were removed, and riders saw impressive normalized power numbers. This new format was made possible by the GMBC purchasing a nice lap counter for 99 laps, which we also used at the Burlington Crit on Labor Day organized by the GMBC. I think next year we will have a mixture of points race and crit race format. Skirack has been a great supporter of the GMBC for many years. This year they were also the official supplier for the 1k2go race teams. For the Practice Crits, Skirack did step up and matched the prize money for the top three competitors in the B and A races, so they were competing for $20 gift cards to Skirack! I think this was a nice win-win situation for both the racers and Skirack.

4 From the VP’s Desk DISCOUNTS AT SYNERGY FITNESS! continued from p. 3 by Kevin Bessett If you’re looking for a gym to join, and are a GMBC member, check We wrapped up the month out Synergy Fitness in Williston (synergyfitness.com).The facility is when 15 of us resurrected the super clean, and has a friendly and inviting atmosphere. Moreover, Mad River Century Ride route. as a club member, you will receive a nice discount on either 3- This was a great day, with many or 6-month, or annual memberships. Synergy Fitness is just off averaging 20 mph and higher over Industrial Avenue. the distance. We will do this one GMBC prices: 3-month is $195; 6-month is $340; and the annual again next year! is $599 (this includes one personal training session). All must be Subsequent to the GMBC prepaid, except for the annual option, for which you can use EFT Century Day in September, each month. we had a ride from Essex to Bakersfield and tacked on a I’ve had the pleasure of taking spin classes and working out at Smugglers’ Notch climb. We Synergy Fitness for a number of years. It feels nice just walking also did a flat ride out on the in the door because of its warm atmosphere. You can check out Synergy for a week at no charge, too. Call Jan at 802.881.0553 for islands—a great ride from Jasper more info. Mine Road out to North Hero and back, where we didn’t shy from long dirt sections along the shore in South Hero. In October, the Cochran’s Metric Century attracted many Downshifting by Cathy Ryan GMBC riders out for a great ride supporting a good cause he first time I couldn’t I was eight. I played water polo on a rather chilly day. Later in breathe, I was swimming in in college. I knew I could do T the month, we headed north to deep water in Lake Dunmore, better… if I could just figure out Enosburg Falls to catch Little Jay doing my first triathlon. I was what went wrong in the water… and Big Jay climbs and descents. gasping for air, and every time Two days later, I was short of This was yet another stellar ride I put my head under water to breath walking up a minor hill for our memory bank. swim, my body tried to breathe near work. Later that day I was Thanks to all who came out in. Which is a bad idea when short of breath walking home for the VP rides, and also for your face is underwater. So I from the bus. I Googled it (of the many pulls that I received to swam three quarters of the swim course) and started worrying help me re-join the group. I think with my head above water. As about a blood clot in my lungs we can all agree that we had a I exited the water, I said to my (pulmonary embolism), since really good season filled with husband, “I did terribly; I can’t I had been temporarily taking challenging yet fun rides. Stay breathe!” Then I got on my bike birth control pills (to avoid in shape & have a great winter. and kept going, finishing 34th out having my period during our Maybe I’ll see you on snow! of 50 women. upcoming European vacation – to I was a little disappointed, Amsterdam! Cycling mecca of but looked forward to trying the world!). But I was absolutely again in August. My disaster in fine, not out of breath, unless I the water sapped me of energy, was going up the stairs. So I went both mentally and physically. to bed. I woke at 2 a.m., and as But I’m a natural in the water. I I got up to go to the bathroom, was swimming in the ocean in water over my head by the time continued on p.14 5 The touring season’s second half by Phyl Newbeck

eat and rain were definitely which limited the views but also and three for the Social Ride. Co- Hthe themes for this summer, kept the sun from beating down leader Holly Creeks swears that with the latter completely too harshly on the cyclists. Only no more than 15 cars overtook washing out the Jaunt from nine riders headed to Greensboro her group on the short ride. The Jasper Mines on June 28. on a hot July 12 for the new day was hot and humid with The following week, the rain Orleans Outing. Five cyclists did threatening-looking clouds but finally ended for the Double the long route and four did the none of the predicted showers Ferry South ride. Six riders did medium version. The riders were and thunderstorms arrived, the social version and 18 did surprised by a brief burst of rain although they did fall in Paris the regular ride which for the right before the start but the skies where a Pinarello (yes, I had to second year in a row was done cleared and the temperature rose get that in) was once again the backwards, starting with the ferry into the mid 80s—perfect for a dip bicycle of choice for the winner from Burlington to Plattsburgh, in Lake Caspian after the ride. of the Tour de France. heading down to Essex and Alas, heavy rain and thunder On August 1, we joined then taking that ferry over to and lightning caused our fourth members of the Charles River Charlotte before heading back rain-out of the season as Not Wheelmen for our annual Upper up to Burlington. Doing it in Quite Quebec was another Valley Weekend. Ten cyclists met this direction relieves the stress casualty to wet weather. There in South Royalton for the new of worrying about catching was no rain on July 26 but a Horse Country Ride which is a the Burlington/Port Kent ferry dismal forecast meant that variation of a previous route. All which runs infrequently. The only only nine riders showed up for the cyclists did the long (53-mile) downside to the day was the haze Willsboro Wanderer; three doing from fires in western Canada the long ride, three for the short continued on p. 7

Trying Terrific Tuesdays by Sandy Dupuis

There were three different Tuesday bike events that I have been wanting to try for a while now. This year I finally got up the courage to try all three. I rode Kevin Bessett’s Tuesday evening training ride first. I showed up at the Round Church in Richmond in May. There was a group of about 8 to 10 people collecting, no Kevin this particular week. As advertised the pace did get really fast at different points. This group ride will slow down and allow stragglers who get dropped to catch back on. What that means is a weaker rider (like me) will have the opportunity to ride as hard as they can, blow up and get dropped multiple times! The route chosen by the group took us to a neighborhood with a hill that we looped around multiple times. It was a great ride. For years Andre Sturm, Scott Decker and Chad Phillips have suggested I try a practice Crit. So for some unknown reason, I decided this was the year to do it. Andre puts on a great practice Crit series during the summer. This year between uncooperative weather and road continued on p. 14 6 Touring season, part 2 Also on August 2, Lou Bresee County. This ride has had some continued from p. 6 revived the old Monkton Ridge issues in the past and I confess Ride. Twenty-two cyclists that we had a few again. One attended, six of whom had of the five cyclists on the long version which has some serious surnames that started with C. A (54-mile) route got two flats early hills. There were some big black stiff south wind greeted the cyclists in the ride and two of the nine clouds and distant thunder as as they headed out but it turned on the 42-mile loop fell off their we returned to our cars but no into a tail wind for the return trip bikes: one in the parking lot at rain fell. Afterwards, most riders which made the hills easier to deal our break stop and one while cooled off in various bodies with. All cyclists, including the rounding a curve at the very end of water ranging from Pat and social riders, did the long route. of the route. Thankfully nobody Tom’s pond to Silver Lake and On August 9, 14 riders took was injured. This is also a ride the White River. In the evening part in the Triple Ferry Ride where we have occasionally we headed to the Worthy Burger (although two opted for a longer had issues with cycle-phobic where two of us sampled the route with only two ferries). residents. That trend continued newest in health food—deep While this ride didn’t feature but thankfully the pick-up truck fried bacon in caramel sauce. any live critter sightings, we did that rolled coal at us did so from The burgers were followed by see a T-Rex sculpture in New an exhaust pipe rather than ice cream at Sandy’s in Sharon York and a Champ sculpture in a vertical exhaust stack and where we were treated to the South Hero. The path leading the verbal abuse we received story of one of the Massachusetts to the Causeway in South Hero (“ride single file,” “get out of rider’s Everest expedition. We isn’t in great shape but the rest the road” [expletives deleted]) later discovered that she is the of it is perfectly fine for skinny was not hollered from a vehicle first Chinese woman and the first tires. Although West Shore Road but from the porch of a house, Asian-American to have climbed suffered from some washboard despite the fact that we were on the Seven Summits (the highest surfaces, the view of the lake and a stretch of road with great sight point on each continent) and skied the huge multi-colored birdhouse lines that was completely devoid to both the North and South Pole. collection made it worthwhile. of cars in either direction. We The following day was cooler Several other GMBCers joined us worried the jerk would get in for Woodstock Wandering. One afterwards for a picnic at Auer’s his vehicle and chase us but he rider left us but we were still nine Boathouse in Burlington. Sal was apparently too lazy to do so. strong with one cyclist doing made delicious burgers with a When I pre-rode the route in July the long ride and the rest of us variety of toppings including I encountered a couple walking sticking to the 42-mile route bacon, shredded steak, cheese, while pulling a red wagon with which, while hilly, had nothing as cooked onions and mushrooms, potted plants who told me they steep as we experienced the day lettuce, tomatoes and more were taking their tomatoes for a before. We all enjoyed our stop bacon. Various other club walk. There were no ambulatory at the Brownsville General Store members brought sumptuous vegetables on this ride, but we which has a really cool train set desserts and delicious salads. did see a small bear cross the with a sustainability theme. At Only one rider (that would be road between Belvidere and the end of the weekend, one me) took advantage of the water Eden. Most riders jumped in the of the Massachusetts riders for a dip in Lake Champlain. Lamoille River at the end of the announced that she wanted to Personally, I think all rides should ride and many followed that up move to Vermont. The roads end with bacon, Matt’s chocolate with carnivorous treats at the on the Upper Valley rides were chip cookies, and swimming. Burger Barn in Jeffersonville. in great shape and traffic was On a hot and steamy August August 23 started out relatively minimal. We didn’t hear a single 16, 14 riders convened in cool but the heat soon built up car honk their horn over the Jeffersonville for the Covered for the 15 cyclists embarking on course of two days. Bridges of Franklin and Lamoille continued on p. 8 7 our skinny tires but they tolerated GMBC SPONSORS & FRIENDS our presence. Willoughby Wanderings is a shorter ride (48 miles) and has a bit more traffic but you can’t beat the scenery with views of Crystal Lake and Lake Willoughby. Again, we were treated to miles of fresh pavement although we were a little disappointed that the fog lines on Route 16 were painted approximately two inches from the edge of the road. Afterwards, a return visit to the Tiki Bar was in order and three riders included a dip in Joe’s Pond as part of Thanks for your support! their drive home. Thankfully, the day stayed overcast so although it was humid, the heat wasn’t too bad. Touring season, part 2 Not only that, but there was a continued from p. 7 beautiful two-foot shoulder. Add Also on August 29 we had Buck Hollow and Beyond. This that to the lack of cars and it was 18 riders closer to home for the was the ride of forgetfulness with quite glorious. The day heated Kingsland Bay ride. A mix-up one rider forgetting water bottles, up a bit and we had a headwind on the website led two riders to another leaving her food in her for the last part of the ride but a arrive at 9:45 instead of 8:45 so car and a third leaving a helmet stop at the Silvio Conte Visitors our thanks to Holly who waited and shoes at home (and then Center gave us a break before at the start area to send them on leaving). The heat was enough the home stretch. We altered their way on the short (35-mile) that when two riders stopped the ending of the ride which put route. Four riders did the social at a closed store looking for us over 70 miles for the day but version of the ride for 42 miles additional liquids and saw people eliminated the only part of the and three cyclists did the 65- at the window of an apartment route which normally has traffic. mile route while the rest stuck to above, they ended up requesting The only sour note was a flat tire the 47-mile version which they (and receiving) much needed tap on a side trip to New Hampshire extended a bit by substituting Tyler water. Snacks in St. Albans (some for food, proving that unless Bridge Road, State Prison Road healthy, most not) and much you’re a presidential candidate and Route 116 for Silver Street. needed Gatorade were enjoyed by you should stay on the Green Labor Day Weekend was hot everyone at the midway point and Mountain side of the Connecticut again which probably explains a number of cyclists changed the River (although the Rendezvous why only 10 riders decided end of the route to avoid having bakery is quite impressive). to head out on the Awesome to go up Ballard Hill in the heat. Afterwards, some went for a Ausable ride. Six did the long ride On Saturday, August 29, eight swim in Island Pond while others while four did a shorter length riders convened in Island Pond went to the Tiki Bar in Burke, so they could beat the heat and for Moose Country Meandering followed by a wonderful pot luck enjoy the falls at Ausable Chasm. on a day that started cool at Pat and Tom’s house. Bagels were consumed in Lake enough for many to wear long On Sunday, we added four Placid by all the long route riders sleeves. We had heard rumors more riders for Willoughby before they blasted back down to of bad pavement on Route 102 Wanderings. The folks at the Jay on what was the longest ride but it must have been repaved Kingdom Trails parking lot gave ever for one of the cyclists. Riders a few days before we got there. us weird looks as we arrived with continued on p. 9 8 Touring season, part 2 et Beaux Villages on a sunny but continued from p. 8 chilly morning. There were some lumps in the roads in St. Armand on the medium route saw a bald but things flattened out through eagle but one had her left shifter Phillipsburg, Mystic (where riders lock up in a very low gear with stopped for crepes) and Bedford. only three miles to go. The ferry One cyclist shortened the ride had already tooted its horn as she after Bedford and was able to crossed the railroad tracks just return to the start by making ahead of an approaching train use of her high school French. but the captain had a change of The rest of the group carried on heart and lowered the ramp… through Frelighsburg and up the while announcing that she had to hill to Pigeon Hill where they “The ferry had buy beer for the rest of the boat. discovered that the Canadian border facility had closed at already tooted The curse of rain struck 4:00 p.m., 15 minutes earlier. again for Jericho Jubilee giving its horn as the Pushing the button would not us a total of five rainouts for open the big steel gate. Having the season. Century Day was a rider crossed the no idea if the U.S. crossing was cool one but the sun began to manned and not wanting to railroad tracks emerge at the end of the ride cause an international incident, which was helpful since we just ahead of an they backtracked to St. Armand were facing a stiff north wind. and were forced to ride the approaching train. It was an odd Century Day lumpy road to Phillipsburg and since nobody did the regular The captain had the border crossing at Highgate century: three riders did the Springs. The group arrived at a change of heart double gap and the remaining their cars in time for sunset. 18 did the metric century (one Along the way they witnessed a and lowered the of those joined along the way couple of teenagers on an ATV but since he fixed flats for two ramp ... while being pursued by sheriffs with of his fellow riders, we decided blue lights flashing. John reported announcing the to count him). The first wave seeing a lot of cyclists in Quebec of metric riders was joined rider had to buy who were also enjoying the good temporarily by another GMBCer road surfaces and low traffic. beer for the rest and for a longer period of time of the boat.” by a couple from Canada. We The following day, four cyclists saw a very cool mailbox which headed to the Mad River Valley was balanced on a surfboard for Waitsfield and Waterfalls. One attached to a motorcycle. One rider turned back after the big hill sobering note was the fact that which the riders were forced to the metric century passed by take since the bridge that starts the ghost bikes in honor of Richard ride was closed. From there it was Tom and Kenneth Najarian: a a beautiful descent into Warren reminder that our sport is not Village and a nice stop at the busy without its dangers. The good Warren Store where apple galette news is virtually all the drivers we pastries were the pick of the day. encountered were polite and gave There was a surprising lack of fall us wide berths. color for late September but all agreed it was still a beautiful ride. On Saturday, September 26, seven riders set out on Meandres continued on p. 11 9 2015 Time Trial season summary by Kevin Bessett

t just under 22 people of nearly 30 per event in 2012. by a rider who was MIA at the Aper event this season, That may not sound like a big closure of the Basin Harbor participation was up by about difference, but it is! There were event in mid-May. He should three over last year’s average. no incidents with cars and/or have finished 30 minutes before That’s in the right direction, but rider-crashes to report, although the last rider did, and concern far below the all-time record I did have a bit of a scare caused mounted because no one passed him along the way. Club treasurer and time trialist John Bertelsen 2015 Time Trial Championship Series Standings and I set out in cars in separate Key: dash (-) indicates not ridden, asterisk (*), indicates fastest male/female. directions to locate him; about 50 Bolded names indicate age group winners. minutes later, just as twilight was Age Grp Name Jsvl-Srt WstFrd Smugg Avg Spd F25-29 Packer, Ashley - - 11.91 fading, I found him. He hasn’t F35-39 Miner, Amy 25.07 24.47 12.88 20.81* gotten lost since, so my threat of F35-39 Hall, Jessica 22.99 22.49 12.51 19.33 a tracking collar has done its job. F45-49 Barbic, Dee - 20.86 11.50 F55-59 Dupuis, Sandy 21.84 21.37 13.00 18.74 It ended well, so all is good. F60-64 Pumo, Dorothy - 18.68 - M15-16 Noel, Sam 24.35 23.31 13.85 20.50 A new course was used this M15-16 Kilburn, Gaelen 25.02 - - season that ran on Rt. 108 M15-16 Moody, Will - - 13.13 from Jeffersonville to close to M17-18 Willsey, Cooper 26.43 26.67 16.14 23.08 M19-24 Hyde, Paxton 23.71 23.70 14.69 20.70 Bakersfield and back. Everyone M30-34 Cochran, Eric - 21.56 - loved it; it had perfect pavement, M30-34 Oakley, James 22.78 - 14.14 M30-34 Osler, Evan - - 13.68 wide shoulders, and very little M35-39 Bailey, Bobby 28.26 27.98 16.07 24.10 traffic. The series will likely make M35-39 Hall, Oliver 26.40 25.77 16.20 22.79 two visits to it next season. M40-44 Francisco, Steve 28.49 28.40 16.72 24.54* M40-44 Hanson, Whitney 25.30 24.67 14.10 21.36 Speaking of next season, I’ve M45-49 Willsey, Jamie 25.18 24.30 14.45 21.31 M45-49 Hammond, Marc 25.43 24.24 13.02 20.90 reached a point where I need M45-49 Hubbard, Taylor 26.29 26.26 - help setting up and tearing down M45-49 Duniho, Kevin 25.93 25.08 - courses (dealing w/the Caution M45-49 Bessett, Kevin - - 15.14 M45-49 Noel, Tim 22.25 - 13.01 signs and the turnaround cone/ M45-49 Orlando, John 21.09 21.40 - sign). Tom Moody hosted John M50-54 Znamierowski, Steve 25.10 24.29 13.29 20.89 Williams and me to talk about M50-54 Witmer, John 23.88 23.96 13.48 20.44 M50-54 Moody, Tom 22.83 - 12.68 next season, and I think that we M50-54 Sturm, Andre 24.09 22.58 - have a plan to encourage others M50-54 Oehmig, Dunbar 22.29 - - M50-54 Settel, Tony - 26.52 - to help. Stay tuned. M55-59 Beliveau, Phil 25.19 25.72 14.40 21.77 M55-59 Anderson, Brook 23.08 22.62 12.34 19.35 On the left are the final M55-59 Le Coz, Chris 21.63 21.26 11.36 18.08 standings to the championship M55-59 Cleveland, Tom - 21.96 - series. Here is how it works: M55-59 Messier, Steve - - 13.32 M55-59 Gardner, Doug 23.67 - 14.74 a rider’s fastest average speed M55-59 Martell, Lary - - 11.79 at three different courses M60-64 Lesage, Al 23.50 23.41 13.10 20.00 (Jonesville-Short, Westford, and M60-64 White, David 23.24 23.04 13.28 19.85 M60-64 Van Den Noort, Gordon 22.03 22.07 11.84 18.65 Smuggler’s Notch) are combined M65-69 Rath, David 25.04 24.35 13.81 21.07 to determine an overall average M65-69 Bertelsen, John 21.48 20.45 10.14 17.36 M70-74 Williams, John 21.56 20.84 11.53 17.98 speed, and the rider with the M70-74 Stuart, John 21.44 20.70 11.21 17.78 fastest overall average is the M70-74 Davies, Jordan 19.04 18.05 - T65-69 Belcher D, Tier D 14.96 - 4.65 continued on p. 11 10 Touring season, part 2 legitimate rain. The precipitation continued from p. 9 let up just in time for the wind to shift from west to northwest for Our unofficial rides started the last stretch on Dorset Street on a brisk October 4. Seven although it wasn’t as strong as the “Social rides cyclists headed from Williston morning blasts. The three hardy to Waterbury via the Duxbury souls—while questioning whether average about Road and a little bit of dirt, other less laudatory adjectives 12 mph while the and on their return sampled might be more appropriate—were some of the new pavement and glad they’d suited up. others range from wide shoulders of Route 2. This was not a good year for 13-18. There’s The following week, 13 riders, the touring section. Yes, we had including seven from the social some great rides. We had one no reason why group, headed from South completely new route and a few those who prefer a Burlington to Charlotte on a reworked old ones, as well as five chilly day and enjoyed the food new ride leaders. The continued faster pace can’t and music that preceded the addition of Social Rides made annual East Charlotte Tractor our club friendlier to those who join us as well. Parade. October 18 was a chilly prefer a more leisurely pace and If you have any day for cycling with 10 am made life easier for the “regular” temperatures in the low 30s and ride leaders. We had a whopping thoughts about intermittent snow showers so five rain outs this year which I how to increase riders decided the day was better believe is a record, and a number suited for other activities. One of rides were held on very hot ridership, please week later, three hardy women days. However, even on the days gathered in South Burlington. when the weather was good, our let [Phyl] know!” Undeterred by a 15 mph south numbers were way down. We had wind, we lowered our heads only two rides with more than 30 early part of the season. Many and pedaled furiously down to people and only four with more of us knew Richard Tom and Charlotte via Hinesburg. Along than 20. The Century, which some knew Kenneth Najarian. the way, some brief glimpses generally has a minimum of 40 We’ve also noted that we’re not of sunshine led us to hope we riders, had only 21. attracting younger riders to our would remain dry but that was We’re not sure why our rides touring rides and are hoping not the case. The south wind weren’t well attended this year. to find a way to remedy that turned slightly west as we did We think part of it may be due situation; perhaps by using social and soon light sprinkles turned to to the cycling deaths during the media a bit more. There are definitely some misperceptions Time trials With that concludes another about our touring rides. Some continued from p. 10 season. I offer a hearty “good don’t join us because they think job” to everyone who raced in we’re too slow while others think winner of their age group. any time trials. You may not we’re too fast. The truth is that Non-club members can ride realize it, but you could have the Social Rides average about 12 these courses, but only GMBC been home watching reruns of mph while the others range from members can compete for the Friends episodes! Thanks to all 13 to 18 and there is no reason awards. Congratulations to all of who helped on event day; this why those who prefer a faster the winners, and to Amy Miner series wouldn’t happen without pace can’t join us, as well. If and Steve Francisco for being your help. Looking forward to you have thoughts about how to the fastest overall. seeing all next spring. Think increase ridership, please let me snow. know. See you next season. 11 IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SPINACH or is it the epo? how to wrangle a car tire when your preferred vehicle is a bike (hint: it takes some help) by Michael Coleman, Michael Gretkowski & John Williams

John Williams organized a VP ride starting from the Georgia P&R (Exit 18) on October 24, 2015. The weather was cool and a bit blustery. The route was approximately 50 miles through the Fairfax & Fletcher Hills to Cambridge, Jeffersonville, and return. Prior to the ride, John stopped for coffee at Maplefields and also to add air to the front right tire (of his car!). Alas—the tire valve blew up and said tire was kaput!

othing to do but to abandon and the rest of us continued up flexed ominously! Then Mike Nmy car and deal with it later, the North Road, passing the Gretkowski and I realized there as ride time was imminent. So I Georgia Mt. wind turbines and was a tire shop within view so we pedaled over to the P&R,where scenic Lake Arrowhead. Back began walking in that direction five of us including Mike at the P&R we congratulated to see whether we could get help Coleman, Mike Gretkowski, each other on the great ride and I there. As we walked away, we Dave Havens, and new GMBC returned to my awaiting flat tire. suddenly heard Mike Coleman member Bill (in Swiss kit), Mike G. and Mike C. indicated exclaim: “I got it!” I don’t know layered up for the ride. I related that they would stop by to see how in the world he did it, but my woes about the blown tire how I was doing. Lucky for me! here is the amusing dialogue that on my car. Soon we departed When I got back to my car, followed (by e-mail): out on Rt. 104A (recently paved) the tire was still flat. I had never JW: Guys: Thanks for the great and then into the pastoral beauty changed a tire on my Mazda 3. I ride today and especially thanks for of Fairfax and beyond. As we found the jack and the dinky little the help getting my car back on the crested the hills into Fletcher, nut-removing wrench. I locked road (made it home okay!). I think the ridgelines of Mt. Mansfield the wrench on to one of the tire Mike Coleman swallowed a can of and Smuggler’s Notch became nuts—and discovered there was spinach when we weren’t looking abundantly apparent and no way I could have loosened any because for that final nut he did a beautiful. My mind was not at all of the nuts with that tool. Soon Popeye-esque effort to break it free. on my tire. Mike Coleman arrived with a Or maybe it was the EPO! Awesome In Jeffersonville we decided not cross bar he keeps in his car (he riding with you. to do the Smuggs climb—several also gave me one he keeps as a MC: John: You’re quite welcome! of us had pre-winter chores or spare!). While I watched, Mike I’m glad you made it home without other commitments to return to. was miraculously able to loosen the wheel falling off! Little known And I had my flat tire to deal all but one of the nuts. Mike fact: after an investigation by Clean with. The return trip was good, Gretkowski soon arrived. We Animated Characters of America although as the south wind tried a two-man torque situation (CACA), it was found that Popeye’s increased, we experienced some on each side of the bar wrench cans of spinach were indeed laced exciting side-push. Dave exited on the remaining unforgiving nut. the ride near his home in Milton It did not budge as the cross bar continued on p. 13 12 Spinach continued from p. 12 MG: “I keep telling everyone that At home on the same old roads, Coleman is a renaissance man—add it’s easy to turn your rides into with EPO, as long suspected. Popeye storyteller to the long list of super heads-down timetrials, or a tour- is now under a lifetime ban from natural abilities! See you guys of-the-rear-wheel-of-the-bike-in- cartoon reruns and “Whack-A-Mole” Wednesday.” front-of-you. But biking should be competitions and is being sued for It’s great to have friends like about seeing your surroundings. If fraudulent cartoon activities. Devoted these along on a VP Ride—with not, then we might as well be on fans and readers of his book “It’s not or without the spinach! We’ve indoor trainers. about the Spinach” are heartbroken. had many spectacular rides this A big city may sound like His creators expressed extreme season. biking dystopia, but as anyone on disappointment in Popeye’s turn to two wheels should know, biking saving people in distress by dishonest is by far the best way to see an means, something they never area, as it combines the mobility planned. He came clean on Oprah, of a car with the freedom of a but didn’t seem sincere. Wimpy, pedestrian. A car isolates you whose hamburgers have been found from your surroundings and to be clean, has been vindicated after takes you from one tourist spot years of being looked down upon to another. A bike integrates as the weakling in the long running you with your surroundings and series. He has been spotted together teaches that the best part of any with Olive Oyl, winning her heart VP Ride, top of Whiteface. city is all of the things between with his honest cartoon performances. A little spinach doesn’t hurt when making this climb, the tourist destinations. JW: Great story! either! (Photo courtesy of John Williams). We were staying at the conference hotel near the base of Mont Royal, which just happened to be housing two of the women’s A “bike-about” in Montreal World Cup soccer teams at the by John Orlando time. I was struck by the fact that women soccer players don’t ’m listening to a guy talk But the bigger issue is that have the exaggerated different- Iabout a cell phone app he this talk has nothing to do with species dimensions of football created that takes a user’s music distance education, which or basketball players. They are playlist, catalogues the songs is ostensibly the topic of the normal in all directions. But they according to beat, and then picks conference. But that’s OK, since stand out with a distinct not-to- a song that matches their running the conference is mostly an be-messed-with physicality that effort. It draws from studies excuse for getting my family up to makes it clear that they could take correlating ideal music beat with Montreal for some biking. care of themselves in a pinch. effort. Not surprisingly, ideal beat Montreal is a good opportunity increases with effort, topping for a “bike about,” a ride with no out at a surprising 156 beats per other purpose than to tour an area. continued on p. 15 minute. I wonder how many songs even exist at that level. The problem, I point out, is that “Montreal is a good opportunity for a ‘bike- it uses the runner’s ground speed, about,’ a ride with no other purpose than to a poor proxy for effort; what happens if he or she runs uphill, tour an area ... biking should be about seeing or gets on a treadmill, or a bike? Why not use heart rate instead, your surroundings.” which is more useful to bikers? 13 Downshifting cont. from p. 5 my calf twinged just a little. This that would cause a concussion in Everyone basically said, “You reminded me that for two days most people could cause a deadly have to decide for yourself. If you before the triathlon, my calf hurt brain bleed in someone on blood do ride, be careful. Listen to your quite a bit, which is a symptom thinners. body.” Well, which part of my of a blood clot in the leg. Middle- Pamphlets about blood body? As I began to feel better, of-the-night panicky Googling thinners (a.k.a. Coumadin) and yearned to get back on my of deadly medical conditions weren’t a great help. They bike, my brain might recognize is rarely a good idea. But that’s said patients should protect the risk of biking to work during what I did, then woke my themselves against injury, such as rush hour, and tell me to just husband, and went to the ER. by wearing a helmet when riding not ride for the 6 months I’m Long story short(er), several a bike. But the accompanying on blood thinners. But my heart hours later I was diagnosed photo showed an elderly couple screamed at me to ride. I agreed with a blood clot in my leg and happily riding cruiser bikes not to go “fast,” so no more multiple blood clots in my lungs. through a freakily perfect and triathlons this year, no crits, no I was started on a Heparin IV abandoned subdivision. It wasn’t time trials. I originally agreed and admitted. Fuck. This was clear what the medical opinion not to bike to work (since it’s supposed to be my biking year. In was on trying to break the speed rush hour) and not to ride alone, addition to one or two triathlons, limit on the Spear St. hill, or but I abandoned those mostly- and biking in Amsterdam and biking 100 miles in one day. self-imposed restrictions fairly Belgium with my husband, I continued on p. 16 was planning on doing some GMBC time trials, completing my first and second century rides as a fundraiser for the Juvenile Tuesdays cont. from p. 6 Diabetes Research Foundation, and I was even considering trying construction work, Andre had to cancel three of the six a GMBC practice crit. All came scheduled Crits. I was able to attend two of the three that to a screeching halt. were held. I’d like to thank all those who rode with the “C” My first question was whether group as coaches / mentors. I do recall Bobby Bailey, Marc we could still go to Europe in Hammond and Chad Phillips riding beside me and providing 12 days. The doctor said maybe, much-needed coaching. I know there were many others. but from the look in her eyes, I’ll always remember Bobby’s advice as we navigated around I suspected that the answer the downhill left curve: “Sandy, no brakes.” was probably “no” (and I was right). My second question was Bobby Bailey scheduled two Tuesday Night Worlds whether I could ride my bike. (TNWs) prior to GMSR in my Training Peaks plan. I People who have blood clots remember logging in to Training Peaks and seeing that take blood thinner drugs, to TNW was scheduled and thinking, “oh, noooooooo.” Then prevent more clots and to help the body dissolve the clots that I read Bobby’s comments: “This will be demoralizing, but are already there. But people on totally worth it.” Well now, that was encouraging. Then blood thinners are at a higher risk I remembered that I have always wanted to give TNW a of bleeding. External bleeding is try. The benefit of TNW is you know that once you are no big deal—you see the blood, dropped, you are out. This highly motivates a cyclist to put you stop the blood. The concern in multiple maximum efforts to stay with the group as is internal bleeding, such as in the torso or head. A head injury continued on p. 15 14 Tuesdays cont. from p. 14 Montreal continued from p. 13

long as possible. Yes, I did We left the hotel and sans the occasional sound akin immediately climbed the gravel to a dump truck unloading scrap get dropped in both TNW road on the east side of Mont metal, followed by empirical rides. The interesting Royal, which seemed preferable evidence that a bike will indeed part for me was on both to the busy main road. This track the same parabolic curve occasions, once dropped begins a network of hard-packed through the air expected of any I looked around and I was gravel roads that are easy to ride ground-launched projectile. not alone—others had on road bikes. We made sure We continued on the bike path to hit the lookout at Chalet du to Pont Victoria Bridge, which been dropped. We would Mont-Royal for the obligatory form our own sub group took us back across the river. It is selfie, and then came back down best to treat this tricky section like and continue the ride. to head east on the Rue Rachel downtown Boston and just put bike lane to the Botanical Garden I hope next year I will be your faith in the signs. Logic will and Olympic Park. While the only get you lost. able to participate in all route brings frequent stops at three of these challenging corners, it took us through some Once on the other side we Tuesday cycling events. hip neighborhoods worth seeing. followed the river up and down These events were so for miles, exploring the various After riding through the inlets and outlets to tour dams, worth it. Garden and Olympic Park, we docks, parks, and other features. headed south over the massive Remember that the journey is the Pont Jacques-Cartier bridge to point, not the destination. We Ile Sainte-Helene island. This is stopped at the Science Center a good place to park if you are café on the water for lunch, then just coming up for a day. From noodled around the streets of Old here you can tour the roads that Montreal until eventually turning wind through the park, making back towards the hotel. sure to hit the Biosphere. While the steel Biosphere doesn’t seem Consider adding some “bike to have much bio about it, there abouts” to your repertoire. Membership Renewals are some pretty cool photos in the It’s time! The GMBC depends front courtyard of various natural on the continued support of phenomena that are worth seeing. members like you. Now that it’s From here we took a short 2016, please consider renewing bridge across to the sister island, today. Visit thegmbc.com and where we found ourselves on a click “Join GMBC” for details. Formula One course! Yes, this course is open to bikes when not in use, and the bike path actually uses part of the course. After years of insisting he was not a serious biker, my son suddenly drilled it and forced me to chase him through multiple high speed laps, diving in and out of corners and pit stops. The experience brought back memories of my criterium days, 15 Downshifting cont. from p. 14 quickly. Being overly-logical at times, I explained to my husband “So, through headwinds, cold weather, flat tires that having another person with and sore muscles, I ride . . . because I can’t not do me would only help in a set of extremely unlikely conditions: this. I’m not the fastest, and this year I’ve learned • I’d have to crash. I’ve never that that’s okay.” crashed. I’ve only crashed once. • I’d have to be injured so None of us knows how long we put a hand on his girlfriend’s back badly that I couldn’t call have left on this Earth to ride our to give her a boost on the hills. 911 myself, with the phone bikes, so I want to ride. I crave So my husband decided to do the I now carry in my jersey. it. Biking to work starts and same. But I had just gotten a new, ends my day right. As I wrote big, rearview mirror, and he has • I’d have to be injured so not on Facebook after my first post- bar ends, and he got too close, badly that I’d die from my hospital ride, on the Stowe bike and over we went. We were going injuries anyway (because, path, “I can’t not do this.” slowly, and luckily I landed on a remember, we’re looking grassy shoulder. No road rash, just at instances where having This will certainly sound a colorful fist-sized bruise on my another person there would cliché, but when something you thigh. This was a good reminder help). love is taken away from you, it is even more beautiful when you get that I need to keep some space • It would have to be a crash it back. After I started commuting around me in the Tour de Tucson— that either didn’t involve a alone again, I’d sometimes an event that draws over 9,000 car, or where the car driver think, “I’m riding my bike! On cyclists! didn’t call for help (i.e. hit the road! By myself! I’m such a So, through headwinds, cold and run). badass.” For now, my priorities weather, flat tires, and sore • It would have to be a must change a little, from eagerly muscles, I ride. Because there are crash where a driver didn’t checking to see if I got any PRs also gorgeous views; the perfection quickly see me lying on the on Strava, to just eagerly being on of getting to work, getting a road and come to my aid. my bike, and soaking it all in. workout, and being outside all Now, don’t get me wrong; I I’m on the road (literally) to at the same time; the beautiful like riding with other people recovery. I did 60 miles of the mechanical machine that is a sometimes. But it can be tough charity ride in July, and plan bike; the feel of the wheels on the to coordinate bike commutes. So on doing the full 104 miles in road; and the occasional PR on after buying some higher-tread late November (the JDRF ride Strava reminding you that you are tires and a new rear-view mirror is part of the Tour de Tucson). improving even if it doesn’t feel for my road bike, and a Road ID My husband was worried about like it. Because I can’t not do this. bracelet and a cool new high-viz me doing my first century so I’m not the fastest, and this year jersey, I rode alone. And it was soon after a major medical issue, I’ve learned that that’s OK. What’s glorious. and while I’m still taking blood important is that I am. I am alive, thinners. So I asked my doctors. and I am a cyclist. Some people would play it safe They said the distance isn’t an and just not ride. Someone might issue—just don’t crash. Two days say that I should just be happy to later, I crashed, for the first time be alive (pulmonary embolisms ever. We were doing the Tour de are often deadly). I am happy to Farms with two be alive. And so I want to live. other couples. One of the guys would occasionally 16 RIDING THE RIDGE an end-to-end tour of the Blue Ridge Parkway with velo Girl Rides in September by Amy Otten

With over 50,000 feet of climbing over less than 500 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina is on many cyclists’ bucket lists. While sometimes overshadowed by more dramatic places, the relentless hills deliver beautiful scenery and a lasting sense of camaraderie among those who ride it together.

hat Eastern destination of phone calls and we took the out to be much harder than we Whas over 50,000 feet of last two spots this September with had anticipated. climbing in less than 500 miles? Velo Girl Rides. At 6:30 am on a cool North It’s sometimes overshadowed by We spent the summer thinking Carolina morning, we met our more dramatic places, but it’s also we were getting ready for our guides and most of the other on many folks’ bucket list.That trip—several 70+ mile days, back riders. Velo Girl Jen Billstrom would be Blue Ridge Parkway, to back days, a self-contained and her husband David packed a 470-mile National Park in trip climbing to Lake Placid and our bikes in the bike trailer and Virginia and North Carolina. some notches or gaps. Ralph the rest of us climbed bleary eyed Last spring, Ralph was perusing analyzed climbs—there were into the van to start the long drive the internet and found at least none more than 8%—so we knew back to Virginia and the start of two companies offering an end- we had some long climbs coming to-end ride of the parkway. A (10 and 13 miles). The trip turned little more research and a couple continued on p. 18

The author, at one of many vistas. (Photo courtesy of Amy Otten). 17 Ridge continued from p. 17 also impromptu groups all over if we’re ever in the area again, the little downtown. Tourists and we’ll go back. After a nice break, the Blue Ridge. Along the way, locals come from all over to hear guess what? Back up to Mt. we picked up two more riders the local musicians, including an Pisgah—about 2,900 feet above (for a total of 10) and had some 8 year old and a banjo player with us. We spent the night at a bed lunch. But it was 2:30 before we a “Bernie” button on his hat. and breakfast owned by a couple were on our bikes and ready to On the fifth day, we entered who loves gourmet cooking. It ride 45 miles. Yes, it was a long North Carolina and passed the was a bittersweet evening, partly day and the hills seemed harder half-way point (mile 235); as because the weather forecast for than they usually might, but after always, at the top of a hill. We the last day was pretty dismal. a shower and an excellent dinner talked to a group of local hawk- We woke up to pouring rain, at a restaurant featuring local watchers, who were counting but everyone gamely put on their foods we felt much better. migration numbers and were raingear and warm layers. We Day 2, we rode south from happy to share their binoculars still had more than 55 miles to where we started almost to and scopes. We began to enjoy go, including the highest point on Roanoke. This was our longest the company of the back of the the Parkway. Riding in the rain mileage day (70+) and it included pack, including Jim and Sally isn’t much fun, especially when a 13-mile climb in the middle. from South Carolina and Brick it’s cold and then gets very windy. Riding along at 5 mph, we from New Jersey. Brick kept a More than one rider remarked figured we wouldn’t be done until humorous blog of his adventures about the water running uphill. about 7 pm. Fortunately, the day and we began to look forward to The only way to stay warm was included more descending (9,000) reading it every day. to ride uphill; the downhills were than ascending (7,200), so the rest After a day of rest in Boone, brutal and everyone got slower of the miles went a little faster. NC, we were ready to tackle the and slower as we got colder. Whew! If the uphills are long, hardest day of the trip—about Leader Jen had said she’d only that makes the downhills long. 7,400 feet to climb in 60 miles called a ride once before, but she stopped us all at the high For the next couple of days, we and almost continuous climbing after lunch. We had beautiful point and said it was simply too climbed the hills a little easier and dangerous to stay out. We took began to enjoy the camaraderie weather, spectacular views, good food and great company. turns changing in a tiny trailer of the others, the weather and the and then got warm in the van. great food. David loves to cook At the end of the 60 miles, we had an option to climb another How disappointing! But everyone and has done research into what agreed it was the right call. So will keep cyclists healthy and 4 miles to the top Mt. Mitchell, the highest point in the East. We we have to go back for the last 38 moving. Every day was a lunch miles someday. adventure as he fed us wraps, were exhausted, so we didn’t do healthy snacks, salty things and it, but the others did. That night We’ve had much more lots to drink. This, while sitting in we stayed high on the Blue Ridge challenging single day rides (e.g., a chair under an awning. A little in a resort town called Little 77 miles straight into the wind different than our usual touring Switzerland, with gorgeous views in ND; loaded over the WV group stop! from our hotel window. ridges) but this was overall the What goes up must come down hardest trip we’ve ever done. The We spent the third and fourth hills seem reasonable but they’re nights in the amazing Virginia and our next to last day included an almost 20 mile downhill to relentless, with virtually no town of Floyd, known for having flat spot on the entire Parkway. just one stoplight. The “amazing” the Folk Art Center just outside of Asheville. The Folk Art Fortunately, Velo Girl Rides gave part of Floyd is that every us great food, lodging and fun Friday evening the whole town Center is a collective of local and native artists. We didn’t really and we met others to share the turns into a bluegrass festival. A experience. A big one for our headline concert in a hall, but have time to look at everything before it was time to be off, but bucket lists for sure. 18 Advocacy Update by Viola Chu

just wanted to update everyone many of us really, really want I on goings-on in the advocacy a bike friendly community. I Membership Renewals department. I recently met with will try to let everyone know in It’s time! The GMBC depends Emily Boedecker, the energetic timely fashion what is happening on the continued support of newish director of Local Motion, and how we can help. In the members like you. Now that it’s to discuss ways that GMBC meanwhile, enjoy the rest of 2016, please consider renewing can work with Local Motion to 2015 and let’s hope for a safe and today. Visit thegmbc.com and achieve common goals. Like all productive 2016. click “Join GMBC” for details. of us, Emily wants to see a world where walking and biking are safe and obvious choices. To get there, all of us who believe in non- OFFICERS’ ROW motorized use of roadways need to band together. POSITION NAME EMAIL President for Life Kevin Bessett [email protected] As many of you know, the Vice President John Williams [email protected] Vermont Bicycle and Pedestrian Treasurer John Bertelsen [email protected] Coalition, the statewide Secretary Cooie DeFrancesco [email protected] organization that advocated Touring Chair Phyl Newbeck [email protected] for bike/pedestrian legislation, TT Chair Kevin Bessett [email protected] merged with Local Motion about Race Team Chair Bobby Bailey [email protected] a year ago. This means that in Burlington Crit Co-Chair Sam Hoar [email protected] addition to all of the advocacy Practice Crit Chair Andre Sturm [email protected] and education programs and Advocacy Chair Viola Chu [email protected] Newsletter Chair Jane Dunbar [email protected] projects that Local Motion Webmaster Your Name Here! [email protected] currently implements, Local Motion will also be the principal force behind bicycle and pedestrian related legislation. Schedule of Publications and Deadlines Local Motion has set a number Issue Deadline Approx. Drop Date of legislative priorities for the Winter 2016 January 22, 2016* February 29, 2016 rapidly upcoming legislative Spring 2016 May 1, 2016 May 31, 2016 session and is working on Summer 2016 August 1, 2016 August 31, 2016 the specifics of the bills to be Fall 2016 November 1, 2016 November 30, 2016 introduced. We are fortunate *N.B. I will be out of the country from February 9 - 19th; hence the earlier-than-usual deadline! that others are willing to mire themselves in legalese, but it does mean that when they are ready to introduce legislation to the thegmbc.com state house, the rest of us should all be prepared to support the facebook.com/GreenMountainBikeClub bills in any way possible. So yes, phone calls, emails, trips to the state house, attendance at public Coming Soon? Let us know what you think ... meetings, etc., to let those who make policy and laws know how 19 PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Montpelier, VT GMBC Perspectives Permit No. 61 c/o GMBC PO Box 492 Williston, VT 05495